Facing a life-changing illness or grief?

You are not alone. We’re here to support you.

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Welcome to Bow Valley Palliative

Nestled in the Bow Valley, we believe in the power of community. When you’re facing a life-changing diagnosis or experiencing grief, we’re here to walk alongside you, meeting you right where you are.

Our compassionate support is tailored to your needs, helping you live meaningfully, no matter the circumstances. We’re here for your loved ones too, offering guidance and care for those supporting you. And through it all, we’ll help you navigate the grief that comes with these moments of change.

About Us

Latest Update

We Made It Here Together | A Groundbreaking Moment for the Bow Valley

On October 14, 2026, Bow Valley Palliative celebrated a monumental milestone: breaking ground on the Pestell Centre for Compassionate Care.
Six years of vision, advocacy, generosity, partnership, and perseverance brought us to this moment.
Together with our Board, staff, volunteers, donors, an Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, local leaders, and supporters, we celebrated more than construction. We celebrated a shared commitment to ensuring individuals and families throughout the Bow Valley can access dignity, comfort, and compassionate care, close to home.

While the occasion was marked by a more intimate gathering, this milestone belongs to everyone who helped make it possible, whether they stood beside us that day or supported the journey along the way.

Read more about Pestell Centre

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Bow Valley Palliative has a NEW OFFICE. Visit our location page for directions, parking information, and everything you need before your visit.

FIND US & VIEW PARKING INFO

Making an impact through our programs

compassionate companions

One of our key programs, Compassionate Companions, pairs individuals with trained volunteers who act as dedicated listeners and community guides. These volunteers take the time to understand what matters most to each person, providing personalized support throughout their journey. Whether you’re facing a life-changing diagnosis helping a loved one navigate their own caregiving path, or experiencing grief, a Compassionate Companion will assist in connecting you with resources and support, always with the focus on maintaining your quality of life.

Our Programs
Join us at our upcoming events
Event Calendar
Open to Public
Good Grief: Nature Walking Through Grief and Loss

Oct 30

|

02pm - 04pm

|

Canmore Nordic Centre

Join us at Canmore Nordic Centre for a gentle group walks in the natural beauty of Bow Valley Provincial Park to support people as they process grief and loss.
Over six weeks, participants will have time for rest and reflection, conversation or solitude, while observing changes in the landscape and within themselves.

Observe, breathe, connect and be present in the moment. Our hope is that these walks support you in your own healing journey.
The program has been developed in partnership with Alberta Parks and Mount Royal University. The program fee is $20 and will be donated to Bow Valley Palliative.

Learn More
Open to Public
Fall Grief Support Group Session 4 – Anticipatory Grief

Nov 3

|

06:30pm - 08:30pm

|

Banff Mineral Springs Hospital

In session 4 – Anticipatory Grief, we will explore how anticipatory grief is experienced, types of losses, and coping tools. Participants will have an opportunity to gently explore their own grief through small group discussion followed by whole group conversation. This session closes by looking at meditation and healing practices to nurture ourselves as we sorrow.

There is no cost to attend the sessions however, pre-registration is recommended. Participants may enroll in all six sessions or select those topics of most interest.

Learn More
Open to Public
Good Grief: Nature Walking Through Grief and Loss

Nov 6

|

02pm - 04pm

|

Canmore Nordic Centre

Join us at Canmore Nordic Centre for a gentle group walks in the natural beauty of Bow Valley Provincial Park to support people as they process grief and loss.
Over six weeks, participants will have time for rest and reflection, conversation or solitude, while observing changes in the landscape and within themselves.

Observe, breathe, connect and be present in the moment. Our hope is that these walks support you in your own healing journey.
The program has been developed in partnership with Alberta Parks and Mount Royal University. The program fee is $20 and will be donated to Bow Valley Palliative.

Learn More
Open to Public
From In The Dark To In The Know: Waiting Room Revolution Workshop

Nov 7

|

09:30am - 01pm

|

BVP Office

Healthcare can feel overwhelming when you or someone you love is facing a life-changing diagnosis. What questions should you ask? What information do you need? What might happen next? How can you make informed decisions when the path ahead is uncertain?

The From In The Dark To In The Know workshop introduces the Waiting Room Revolution’s Seven Keys For Navigating A Life-Changing Diagnosis. Offering practical tools, knowledge, and language to help people navigate illness, caregiving, and the healthcare system with greater confidence.

This workshop is for everyone whether you are navigating your own illness, supporting someone you love, caring for a family member, working in healthcare, or simply want to feel better prepared for the future.

Learn More
Open to Public
Understanding My Grief

Nov 12

|

11am - 12pm

|

BVP Office

This is a workshop exploring loss, grief and sorrow as fundamental human experiences that can open pathways to transformation, deepening & growth.

Drawing on the work of Alan Wolfelt & Francis Weller, we will consider the many ways grief is expressed, cultural myths and expectations about how we “should” grieve, & ways of navigating loss with greater compassion, presence, awareness & connection.

This workshop will be offered regularly at different time slots, alternating between morning & evening sessions.

Please note:
this workshop is educational in nature & is not a grief support group.

Learn More
Open to Public
Fall Grief Support Group Session 5 – Time Warp: Feeling Sorrow When the World Moves On

Nov 18

|

06:30pm - 08:30pm

|

Banff Mineral Springs Hospital

Session 5 – Time Warp: Feeling Sorrow When the World Moves On offers a compassionate space to explore what it feels like to grieve while the world continues moving forward. Through art-based reflection and gentle conversation, we will explore the isolation of grief, insensitive or awkward comments, and the pressure to appear “okay” or to feel as though we should be grieving differently or moving through grief faster.

Together, we’ll consider how grief has no set timeline and can look different for everyone. We’ll make space for the difficult-to-name needs that arise after loss—including when we need connection, when we need space, and when we simply need permission to grieve as we are.

Facilitator: Kristin Slagorsky

Learn More
Open to Public
Webinar: Supporting Children in Grief

Nov 19

|

07pm - 08pm

|

Zoom

When a child experiences the loss, adults often wonder how best to help.

This webinar will explore:

-What grief is and how it affects children
-How children grieve differently at various ages and stages of development
-What grieving children need from the adults who care for and support them
-The impact of loss and grief on children’s emotions, behavior, learning, and relationships
-A few do’s and don’ts in supporting grieving children

Whether you are a parent, educator, caregiver, healthcare professional, or anyone who interacts with children, this session will provide practical insights and guidance for supporting children through times of loss.

Learn More
Open to Public
Memory Cafe – Canmore

Nov 27

|

11am - 01pm

|

Origin at Spring Creek

Presentation Topic: Preparing for the Holidays

Holidays can be a meaningful yet complex time for dementia caregivers. In this session, we’ll talk about adapting holiday traditions, managing expectations, and keeping your loved one engaged and comfortable. Get practical insights on preparing for a holiday season filled with connection and care.

Register: call 403.609.3743 or email lu.douce@canmore.ca.

Date: Thursday, November 27th, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Origin, Spring Creek, 808 Spring Creek Drive, Canmore

Learn More
Open to Public
Fall Grief Support Group Session 6 – Forgiveness

Dec 2

|

06:30pm - 08:30pm

|

Banff Mineral Springs Hospital

Session 6 – Forgiveness will explore elements of forgiveness while engaging in small group and larger group discussions. This session concludes with a powerful ancient forgiveness practice.

Forgiveness is not about forgetting, excusing, or reconciling. Forgiveness is a liberating act of emotional and spiritual self-care. Forgiveness frees you from the past so you can live more fully in the present—with clarity, strength, and a more open heart. Join us in developing an understanding of the nature and process of forgiveness, including why forgiving others is vital to well-being.

Learn More
BVP Volunteers Only
Holiday Volunteer Drop-In

Dec 9

|

02pm - 04pm

|

Join us for a relaxed Volunteer Holiday Drop In where we gather to connect, unwind, and acknowledge the care you bring to individuals and families across the Bow Valley.

Drop in to share the spirit of the holidays! Enjoy a warm drink, a treat, and gift!

Engage in delightful conversation and friendship with fellow volunteers and BVP staff.

Why do I need to RSVP?
This helps us stay organized and ensure we have enough goodies for all attendees!

Learn More

Your support makes a difference

At Bow Valley Palliative, your generosity helps provide vital support to those in our community facing life-changing diagnoses, as well as their loved ones and caregivers. We offer personalized care that supports individuals navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges—currently at no cost to them.

Your donation directly impacts the lives of those in need by supporting our programs like Compassionate Companions, educational opportunities, and the new Centre for Palliative Care and Hospice in the Bow Valley.

Help us meet the growing need for our programs. Donate today and make a lasting impact.

Donate Today
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